Here in Beijing, China, the skyline is dotted with cranes and construction equipment as this city of 14 million builds itself into the 21st century. Everywhere there is evidence of a dynamic people, proud of their heritage, and eager to take control of the present and the future -- wherever that may lead them.

Mixed among the ancient temples and monuments to long-dead dynasties are the temples of our modern existence: McDonald's, KFC, and Shanghai GM. The city is a study in contrasts with the old standing right there with the very new. One wonders what Chairman Mao would have made of billboards extolling the benefits of private clubs, luxury condos, and golf course communities.

Communism may be still around, but it wears Armani suits and sits behind the wheel of a Mercedes Benz.

I'm touring China with a group, largely from Cape Cod. Our local guide tells us that the Chinese refer to us as "big noses," and that to them, we all look alike. From where we sit, we think they all look alike.

As I look out of the bus, I can see how China is dealing with its affordable housing situation. For as far as the eye can see, it looks like the old Columbia Point housing project -- long gone in Boston, but reincarnated here. With so many people, building can only be done vertically. Believe me, it makes a Chapter 40B project look like a walk in the park.

Sometimes the old China surfaces. One quickly learns the difference between a 1 star and a 4 star bathroom in China. The former is a bomb site type of arrangement -- particularly challenging for the ladies. In using these, we understood why the Chinese practiced Tai Chi.

In the hotels and airports, the background music is very retro. I felt I was listening to WOCN 24 hours a day -- lots of Kenny G, James Galway, etc. Chinese television lets us imagine what American TV would have been like if John Ashcroft had been made head of the FCC rather than Attorney General: lots of